85 South Media's Tubi Deal: What It Means for Atlanta's Comedy Scene

By DeShawn Price, PowerVault Staff

85 South Media just made a big splash by signing a distribution deal with Tubi, the free streaming service that's been making waves with its diverse content offerings. If you're a fan of DC Young Fly, Karlous Miller, and Chico Bean, this is the news you've been waiting for. The deal brings a 10-episode collection of 'The 85 South Show' to Tubi, giving these charismatic comedians a broader stage to showcase their unique blend of humor and cultural commentary. This move isn't just about expanding their audience; it's about solidifying their place in the entertainment scene as influential voices in comedy. For these Atlanta-based comedians, this marks the beginning of a new chapter in their already impressive journey, one that promises to bring fresh content and even bigger laughs to fans worldwide.

According to a report from Deadline, the collection, titled 'The Best Of The 85 South Show,' is just the tip of the iceberg for what's to come. Chad Oubre, the CEO and co-founder of 85 South Media, emphasized that this partnership is a strategic move to broaden their audience reach while continuing to build their burgeoning empire. With a history of successful collaborations, such as their involvement in T.I.'s 'Da Partments,' this deal is a significant milestone in their trajectory. It signals not just growth but a strategic positioning, allowing them to leverage Tubi's platform to amplify their voices and cultural narratives. This isn't merely about distribution; it's about creating a lasting impact in an industry that's always hungry for new, authentic content.

But that's not all. The comedians are making major moves into the film world with a groundbreaking four-film deal involving Kevin Hart's Hartbeat Productions. One of the standout projects, '85 South: Dead End,' promises to deliver a hilarious horror comedy road trip that blends laughs with chills as the trio embarks on a wild journey through the South. This deal marks a transformative era for 85 South Media, as they delve deeper into high-profile entertainment collaborations that push boundaries and expand their creative horizons. Their partnership with Hartbeat Productions is more than just a business move; it's a creative alliance that positions them at the forefront of innovative comedy, blending their signature humor with new storytelling formats.

This deal isn't just a win for 85 South Media; it's a monumental step forward for Black-owned media and entertainment. In an era where streaming platforms are fiercely competing to diversify their content libraries, Tubi's decision to spotlight the raw talent and authentic humor of DC Young Fly, Karlous Miller, and Chico Bean is a crucial acknowledgment of the cultural power these comedians wield. This move shows the vital role of cultural representation in media distribution channels. It highlights the growing recognition that authenticity and diverse narratives are not just desirable but essential to capturing and retaining audiences. This partnership is proof of the shifting scene, where Black voices are rightfully finding their place in the mainstream.

The influence of 'The 85 South Show' transcends mere laughs on YouTube or the podcast circuit; it's a cultural moment that has now been elevated to a grander stage. The trio's impact was solidified when they were recognized at the 2024 NAACP Image Awards, proof of their influence in comedy and beyond. Their Netflix special, '85 South: Ghetto Legends,' masterfully captured the energy and spirit that fans adore, cementing the show as a staple in Black comedy. This recognition not only validates their work but also amplifies their voice in a space that has often sidelined Black comedians. Their journey from digital platforms to mainstream recognition is a powerful narrative of resilience and talent.

This Tubi partnership hints at a bigger trend: the expansion of Black-led media companies into mainstream spaces, reminiscent of industry giants who paved the way. Consider how Tyler Perry built an entertainment empire by centering authentic Black voices and narratives, or how Ava DuVernay revolutionized Hollywood by creating spaces for Black stories on the grandest stages. 85 South Media is following in these formidable footsteps, turning Atlanta into more than just the Hollywood of the South. It's becoming a hub for groundbreaking content that challenges norms and sets new standards. This partnership with Tubi is not just about expanding their audience; it's about redefining what success looks like for Black creators in an industry eager for fresh, genuine perspectives.

While some might see this as just another distribution deal, it's far more significant. It's a testament that our voices matter in spaces often dominated by big studios. We’ve seen this before with artists like Jermaine Dupri, who recently called out the music industry's corporate influence. The need for authentic representation continues to challenge traditional media structures.

This move cements the trio's ability to adapt and thrive, showing us that the hustle is still alive and well.

This move cements the trio's ability to adapt and thrive, proving that the hustle is not only alive but thriving in the digital age. DC Young Fly, Karlous Miller, and Chico Bean have consistently blurred the lines between traditional comedy and modern digital media platforms, crafting a unique space where they can express unfiltered humor and cultural commentary. Their journey from YouTube sensations to mainstream media players is a blueprint for young creators looking to break into the industry against all odds. It shows that with strategic moves and authentic content, it's possible to build a brand that resonates with audiences and industry insiders alike, setting the stage for the next wave of creative talent.

For the industry, this deal challenges the norms of content distribution, shaking up the traditional models that have long dominated. With platforms like Tubi opening their doors to fresh, diverse narratives, the pressure is on for more established services to adapt and evolve. They're no longer just competing for viewership; they're vying for cultural relevance in a rapidly changing entertainment scene. This shift could lead to a new era where storytelling becomes more inclusive, allowing creators to present unfiltered perspectives that resonate with a wider audience. This partnership is more than a business agreement; it's a cultural statement that signals a change in how content is valued and consumed.

The audience stands to gain significantly from this deal, as it means that more authentic content is now within reach. This is an opportunity for fans of Black comedy to see their favorite artists flourish on major platforms, without compromising the raw, unpolished humor that initially captured their interest. In a digital age where audiences are diverse yet often underserved, this type of content is not just wanted, but necessary. It fulfills a demand for genuine representation and storytelling that speaks to the experiences and realities of a layered audience. This deal with Tubi ensures that fans will continue to enjoy the unique brand of comedy that 85 South Media offers, making it accessible to even broader audiences.

Racial and class dynamics in media have long been contentious issues, with battles for representation and equity continuing to this day. Deals like these show a push toward greater equality, but the journey is far from over. With significant players like Tubi embracing Black creators, the industry is slowly but surely moving toward leveling the playing field. However, this deal is just one victory in a much larger fight for representation and equity. It represents a step forward in acknowledging and valuing the contributions of Black creators, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges that remain. The path to true equity in media is a marathon, not a sprint, and each deal like this brings us a little closer to the finish line.

Looking forward, this deal sets the stage for 85 South Media to further expand their reach and influence. Could this lead to more partnerships or even their own streaming service? Whatever their next move is, they'll undoubtedly keep the momentum going strong. As we watch them grow, one thing remains clear: they're not just telling jokes, they're telling our stories in ways that resonate deeply with audiences. Their success is a celebration of Black culture, creativity, and resilience. With each new venture, they continue to break barriers and shape the future of comedy and media, providing inspiration and a blueprint for the next generation of creators looking to make their mark.